Robert Stephenson is a reliever that the Phillies are reportedly interested in. (Image by Icon Sportswire/Brian Rothmuller)
One of the best relievers available on the free agent market is being considered by the Phillies.
Jon Morosi of MLB Network reports that the team has expressed interest in Robert Stephenson, a former right-handed reliever for the Rays. The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets have also expressed interest, according to Morosi.
Stephenson is the best possible option for the Phillies to replace Craig Kimbrel in the bullpen if they’re searching for a right-handed leverage reliever.
After Stephenson was traded from Pittsburgh to Tampa Bay in June of last year, his stock price surged significantly. With the Rays, he recorded a 2.35 ERA in 38 1/3 innings pitched, striking out 60 batters. Stephenson, as opposed to Kimbrel, would probably play a more adaptable position based on Rob Thomson’s inclination for matchups.
Stephenson played for the Reds in 2016 and was a teammate of Phillies pitching coach Caleb Cotham. In Cincinnati, Stephenson also employed Cotham as an assistant pitching coach from 2019 to 2020. Additionally, he was a part of the transaction that sent Stephenson to Colorado and Jeff Hoffman to Cincinnati.
At the top of the relief market, there seems to be some activity. Jordan Hicks is anticipated to start the season as a starting pitcher after agreeing to a four-year, $44 million contract with the San Francisco Giants. The Athletic has reported that the Astros are pushing for Josh Hader, the team’s closer.
The Phillies bullpen, which already features Matt Strahm, Gregory Soto, José Alvarado, Hoffman, and Seranthony Domínguez, would be strengthened by the addition of Stephenson. Though he will need to earn the position out of spring training, Orion Kerkering is also anticipated to be in the Opening Day bullpen.
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